Flagstaff residents criticize proposed housing development

Plans to establish a state housing development in a luxurious Hamilton suburb have the backing of residents, and one man says he would sell his house if it happens.

Seventy two- and three-story building units are planned for Endeavor Ave in Flagstaff, next to the mall.

Kāinga Ora – Housing and Communities (formerly Housing NZ) says that development is still a proposition, and is a combination of state and private housing.

All residents Things He spoke out against the proposal, although business owners had mixed opinions.

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One man, who declined to give his name, said he did not expect state housing when he moved to the area, and would consider selling if it continued.

Another said that it was not a “NIMBY”, but that social housing would disturb the “sense of community”.

Local resident Julie Walker agreed.

“Flagstaff has a good group of people, they take care of their properties around here.

“If it’s a lot of low-cost housing, that will reduce the tone of the neighborhood.

“It could spark more liquor stores.”

Resident and Northeast Community Board member Trish Pascoe did not want tall apartments in a confined space, saying it would be a “monstrosity.”

“I think three stories is crazy, the land is surrounded by one story houses over there.

“We have to have social housing, but it must fit in with the area.”

But Flagstaff Fitness owner Ryan Johnston said the entire mall would benefit from the development.

“From a commercial perspective, it’s not a bad thing, because it’s right next door.

Johnston “100 percent” expected new residents to join the gym.

“We are a community-focused gym, so we would definitely be promoting the people who live there if they come.

“I think Flagstaff and North Hamilton are getting more diverse anyway, I think this is life, so we have to accept that.”

“We cannot expect to have our own isolated pocket where other people we think are undesirable cannot enter, it is not feasible.”

But Super Liquor owner Gary Singh was not happy with the plan.

“We have a nice, quiet suburb here, we don’t want that to change,” Singh said.

State house properties could lead to an increase in “aggressive people,” family violence or crime, Singh said.

“If the price of cigarettes goes up, there could be thefts.”

“If the government decides to do this, they must make sure that there are good people there.”

On Thursday, Hamilton East National Deputy David Bennett said development should not happen, and expected “outrage” from the community.

Worklist MP Jamie Strange said no opinion was being formed.

“Housing is a key issue for our growing city, it is important to use the available spaces, incorporating strong transport connections, services and amenities.

“I am eager to hear the views of residents on this proposal. A number has already contacted me by email and courier, which I have sent to Kāinga Ora.”

Kāinga Ora Waikato program director Martin Chandler said the house was still a proposal that was shared with the community.

Construction and resource consent had to be given before any construction, which could take place between 2021 and 2022.

“Right now a 50/50 combination of public and private market housing is proposed, but this combination could change,” Chandler said.